Press Release

Northgate calls for bold new elections partnerships

7th January 2008

A fresh approach to electoral management is required if the UK’s electoral system is to be fit for purpose for the 21st century and voter participation is to be increased, Northgate Information Solutions, a leading provider of electoral management systems, said today.

In its response to the Electoral Commission’s consultation on developing performance indicators for elections and referendums, Northgate calls for the formation of new performance partnerships involving the public sector and external organisations.

Performance partnerships would drive through continuous improvement in strategic leadership, project management and business process development, and explore how technology could serve more effectively the business of managing elections. They would help to build capability and capacity within the public sector at a time when resources are constrained.

Welcoming the introduction of a performance measurement framework, Northgate warns against rushing into the system and suggests that local authorities should be given a clear timetable, with at least six months for implementation prior to the European parliamentary elections in June 2009. It also recommends a range of initiatives to improve measurement and performance including: 
- a flexible model template for project management to enable all local authorities to efficiently administer elections;
- self-analysis by Returning Officers on all major contracts for electoral administration services; including whether the authority has adopted sustainable procurement practices in awarding contracts;
- consideration of using similar techniques applied to benefits take-up for encouraging participation in the democratic process;
- increased analysis of citizen satisfaction and feedback on the electoral process to foster better public engagement, with particular emphasis placed on those least likely to participate in the electoral process. 

Russell Osborne, Managing Director of Land & Property at Northgate Public Services, said today:  “The democratic system is in desperate need of repair. We need a system that places the citizen at its hearts and addresses the needs of those most disadvantaged in our communities who may often not participate in the electoral process. Many authorities that we work with simply do not have the resources within their authorities to drive forward modernisation and continuous improvement without more support. Some may see the introduction of a performance measurement framework as a burden rather than a necessary change.

“We need to face up to the problem and take action now. If performance standards are to be raised, there is a need for high level strategic commitment to electoral management. This involves developing innovative new practices and changing the way that local authorities work with the private sector in order that they may take advantage of additional skills and resources to re-energise our electoral management systems and renew democracy.”

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